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Emily Stone #5
Dark Pursuit
All of the EMILY STONE THRILLERS are Stand-Alone Books:
2016 CRIMSON QUILL AWARD NOMINEE
AWARD WINNER for ACTION - 2015 International Book Awards Readers' Favorite
SECOND PLACE AWARD WINNER - 2015 East Texas Writers Guild First Chapter Book Awards
Vigilante detective Emily Stone has covertly hunted down killers and closed more serial cases than most seasoned homicide cops combined. Her exceptional profiling skills and forensic techniques, along with deductive crime scene investigations, have made her a compelling force that cannot be beat. She has reached her ultimate breaking point and now must face her toughest opponent yet – her biggest fears.
With preciseness, the Tick-Tock Killer has taken his next child victim and promised to dump the body precisely four days later, mocking police and the community. Stone struggles to balance her inner demons and ghosts from the past, against the wits of a brutal and cunning serial killer in an all-out battle of psychological warfare.
Can Stone save the next child in time? Dark Pursuit is an action-packed cat and mouse game that will take you to dark places rarely explored.
From the Award-winning Emily Stone Thriller Series:
“… a highly recommended pick!” The Midwest Book Review
“Intriguing alpha female character… impressive action scenes.” Kirkus Reviews
“The writing is impeccable and the story is fresh and tight.” Best Selling Author Gary Ponzo
2016 CRIMSON QUILL AWARD NOMINEE
AWARD WINNER for ACTION - 2015 International Book Awards Readers' Favorite
SECOND PLACE AWARD WINNER - 2015 East Texas Writers Guild First Chapter Book Awards
Vigilante detective Emily Stone has covertly hunted down killers and closed more serial cases than most seasoned homicide cops combined. Her exceptional profiling skills and forensic techniques, along with deductive crime scene investigations, have made her a compelling force that cannot be beat. She has reached her ultimate breaking point and now must face her toughest opponent yet – her biggest fears.
With preciseness, the Tick-Tock Killer has taken his next child victim and promised to dump the body precisely four days later, mocking police and the community. Stone struggles to balance her inner demons and ghosts from the past, against the wits of a brutal and cunning serial killer in an all-out battle of psychological warfare.
Can Stone save the next child in time? Dark Pursuit is an action-packed cat and mouse game that will take you to dark places rarely explored.
From the Award-winning Emily Stone Thriller Series:
“… a highly recommended pick!” The Midwest Book Review
“Intriguing alpha female character… impressive action scenes.” Kirkus Reviews
“The writing is impeccable and the story is fresh and tight.” Best Selling Author Gary Ponzo
343 pages, ebook
First published March 13, 2015
496 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Chase
32 books586 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Jennifer Chase is a multi award-winning and USA Today Best Selling crime fiction author, as well as a consulting criminologist. She has written the popular Detective Katie Scott Series and the Emily Stone Thriller Series.
Jennifer holds a bachelor degree in police forensics and a master's degree in criminology & criminal justice. These academic pursuits developed out of her curiosity about the criminal mind as well as from her own experience with a violent psychopath, providing Jennifer with deep personal investment in every story she tells. In addition, she holds certifications in serial crime and criminal profiling.
She is an affiliate member of the International Association of Forensic Criminologists, and member of the International Thriller Writers. www.authorjenniferchase.com
Jennifer Chase is a multi award-winning and USA Today Best Selling crime fiction author, as well as a consulting criminologist. She has written the popular Detective Katie Scott Series and the Emily Stone Thriller Series.
Jennifer holds a bachelor degree in police forensics and a master's degree in criminology & criminal justice. These academic pursuits developed out of her curiosity about the criminal mind as well as from her own experience with a violent psychopath, providing Jennifer with deep personal investment in every story she tells. In addition, she holds certifications in serial crime and criminal profiling.
She is an affiliate member of the International Association of Forensic Criminologists, and member of the International Thriller Writers. www.authorjenniferchase.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 9, 2017
Emily Stone is a self-described vigilante detective. Along with her ex-policeman partner, Rick, she has secretively flown under the radar of law enforcement to hunt down some of the worst serial killers the country has known. Both Emily and Rick have skills that far surpass most seasoned homicide detectives ... profiling and forensics.
On this last case, Emily was just moments too late in saving a young girl's life. She and Rick had accidentally run into the Tick Tock Killer while following another subject. The Tick Tock Killer is well known for abducting children and then leaving their bodies exactly 98 hours later.
This last case has crippled Emily is some respects. She's fearful that she cannot continue her work and will lose more vicitms. *Stone struggles to balance her inner demons and ghosts from the past, against the wits of a brutal and cunning serial killer in an all-out battle of psychological warfare.*
Seeing a therapist, she finds that she can breathe again after relating how she got to be the person she is now and why.
Meanwhile, the hunt for the killer goes on ......
TICK TOCK
My favorite part of this book is when Emily is with the therapist, himself a former cop. Her history beginning with the murder of her parents is fascinating. Being as this is 5th in the series, it read more as the first book. This is a great stand alone.
The killer is cold-blooded, but extremely smart. He's still listening to his mother, although she's been gone many years. Killing Emily is a challenge he can't pass up.
This is very well written, fast paced, and exciting. The lead character is an alpha female who may have issues, but yet is still strong, focused, and one who has not lost her sense of self. Her partner is a step below, always protecting Emily's back, but still strong and looking to serve justice.
Many thanks to the author / JEC Press / Netgalley for the digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
On this last case, Emily was just moments too late in saving a young girl's life. She and Rick had accidentally run into the Tick Tock Killer while following another subject. The Tick Tock Killer is well known for abducting children and then leaving their bodies exactly 98 hours later.
This last case has crippled Emily is some respects. She's fearful that she cannot continue her work and will lose more vicitms. *Stone struggles to balance her inner demons and ghosts from the past, against the wits of a brutal and cunning serial killer in an all-out battle of psychological warfare.*
Seeing a therapist, she finds that she can breathe again after relating how she got to be the person she is now and why.
Meanwhile, the hunt for the killer goes on ......
TICK TOCK
My favorite part of this book is when Emily is with the therapist, himself a former cop. Her history beginning with the murder of her parents is fascinating. Being as this is 5th in the series, it read more as the first book. This is a great stand alone.
The killer is cold-blooded, but extremely smart. He's still listening to his mother, although she's been gone many years. Killing Emily is a challenge he can't pass up.
This is very well written, fast paced, and exciting. The lead character is an alpha female who may have issues, but yet is still strong, focused, and one who has not lost her sense of self. Her partner is a step below, always protecting Emily's back, but still strong and looking to serve justice.
Many thanks to the author / JEC Press / Netgalley for the digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
April 27, 2022
Recommend.
Dark pursuit by Jennifer Chase.
Emily Stone Series Book 5.
Vigilante detective Emily Stone has covertly hunted down killers and closed more serial cases than most seasoned homicide cops combined. Her exceptional profiling skills and forensic techniques, along with deductive crime scene investigations, have made her a compelling force that cannot be beat. She has reached her ultimate breaking point and now must face her toughest opponent yet – her biggest fears.
Really good read. Loved Emily and Rick. I liked the time remaining and then tick tock at the end of the chapter. Lots of action. 5*.
Dark pursuit by Jennifer Chase.
Emily Stone Series Book 5.
Vigilante detective Emily Stone has covertly hunted down killers and closed more serial cases than most seasoned homicide cops combined. Her exceptional profiling skills and forensic techniques, along with deductive crime scene investigations, have made her a compelling force that cannot be beat. She has reached her ultimate breaking point and now must face her toughest opponent yet – her biggest fears.
Really good read. Loved Emily and Rick. I liked the time remaining and then tick tock at the end of the chapter. Lots of action. 5*.
March 11, 2022
The opening chapter of this novel is one of the most thrilling I have read in a great while. I caught myself holding my breath throughout. I LOVED this novel, and I don't love that many. A strong female lead with brilliant supporting characters. The writing was clever and well researched. The plotline was excellent with a lot of twists and turns.
This was book #5 of the Emily Stone series. The only drawback and it is my own... I should have read the books in order.
A highly recommend this series.
This was book #5 of the Emily Stone series. The only drawback and it is my own... I should have read the books in order.
A highly recommend this series.
September 13, 2015
‘Dark Pursuit’ is a very well written psychological crime thriller that will certainly suck the reader into this particular story right from the very start. This is the fifth book in the author’s ‘Emily Stone’ series, but it can be read alone without having to have read any of the previous titles in the series.
This book has been very aptly entitled ‘Dark Pursuit’ and it is quite a dark story that involves both child kidnapping and the murder of children, but the author does handle this sensitive subject matter in a delicate, careful and very professional manner.
The main character within this story is Emily Stone, a vigilante detective who covertly hunts down killers with the assistance of her partner. Emily Stone’s main objective, as in the other books within this particular series, is to covertly assist the law enforcement agencies in catching the perpetrator’s of serious crimes in order to help them to be able to close complex serial cases that have possibly remained unsolved and to bring the perpetrators of the crimes to Justice.
I do like this author’s writing style as she weaves a strong and very well constructed story. The author masterfully creates a very real atmosphere of intrigue and suspense as the perpetrator is pursued by Emily Stone and her partner within the story of ‘Dark Pursuit’. The author’s characters are very strong, real and believable. The reader will become attached over time to both Emily Stone and her partner and will also experience their emotions and also their very human vulnerabilities, as Emily and her partner face some very difficult and sometimes horrifying situations together.
Within this particular story the reader also gains some insight into the reasons as to why Emily Stone has dedicated her life to making sure that the perpetrators of horrific serial crimes are caught and punished by the Law enforcement agencies. It is a glimpse into Emily Stone’s past, which is enlightening for the reader.
I really enjoyed this book which I read from beginning to end almost without stopping for a break! Once started it was difficult to put this book down. I am really looking forward to reading further books in the Emily Stone Series as and when they become available.
This book has been very aptly entitled ‘Dark Pursuit’ and it is quite a dark story that involves both child kidnapping and the murder of children, but the author does handle this sensitive subject matter in a delicate, careful and very professional manner.
The main character within this story is Emily Stone, a vigilante detective who covertly hunts down killers with the assistance of her partner. Emily Stone’s main objective, as in the other books within this particular series, is to covertly assist the law enforcement agencies in catching the perpetrator’s of serious crimes in order to help them to be able to close complex serial cases that have possibly remained unsolved and to bring the perpetrators of the crimes to Justice.
I do like this author’s writing style as she weaves a strong and very well constructed story. The author masterfully creates a very real atmosphere of intrigue and suspense as the perpetrator is pursued by Emily Stone and her partner within the story of ‘Dark Pursuit’. The author’s characters are very strong, real and believable. The reader will become attached over time to both Emily Stone and her partner and will also experience their emotions and also their very human vulnerabilities, as Emily and her partner face some very difficult and sometimes horrifying situations together.
Within this particular story the reader also gains some insight into the reasons as to why Emily Stone has dedicated her life to making sure that the perpetrators of horrific serial crimes are caught and punished by the Law enforcement agencies. It is a glimpse into Emily Stone’s past, which is enlightening for the reader.
I really enjoyed this book which I read from beginning to end almost without stopping for a break! Once started it was difficult to put this book down. I am really looking forward to reading further books in the Emily Stone Series as and when they become available.
May 5, 2015
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions in this review are 100% my own.
This book is actually the 5th book in the series but it can also be read as a stand-alone. I have not read the other books but I plan to read the others.
Emily is the lead character in this book. She is a retired police detective that now works cases to solve serial killers. She has a lot of demons in her past that like to creep up at will.
It takes a lot out of Emily to pursue these criminals and bring justice for the victims.
I couldn’t get enough of this book. I wanted to read more and more. I was on the edge of my seat to see if Emily would get to the victims in time. Would the criminal get caught? My heart also broke for Emily and the things she has had to go through in her past.
If you like fast paced thrillers then this is definitely the book for you. Like I said, I plan on purchasing the other books in the series so I can read them all.
This book is actually the 5th book in the series but it can also be read as a stand-alone. I have not read the other books but I plan to read the others.
Emily is the lead character in this book. She is a retired police detective that now works cases to solve serial killers. She has a lot of demons in her past that like to creep up at will.
It takes a lot out of Emily to pursue these criminals and bring justice for the victims.
I couldn’t get enough of this book. I wanted to read more and more. I was on the edge of my seat to see if Emily would get to the victims in time. Would the criminal get caught? My heart also broke for Emily and the things she has had to go through in her past.
If you like fast paced thrillers then this is definitely the book for you. Like I said, I plan on purchasing the other books in the series so I can read them all.
June 3, 2017
In Dark Pursuit, Emily Stone a former deputy sheriff and her boyfriend Rick a former sniper for a swat team go after a serial killer that is dubbed The Tick Tock Killer. He kidnaps young girls and only hold them for 96 hours (4 days) and then kills them. No one knows who he is. He has evaded the police for years. Emily does find him in a mountain cabin, but he gets the upper hand and buries her alive. She gets out of the grave only to find the girl who was alive, killed. This brings on signs of PTSD from when she was on patrol. So now Emily has to over come PTSD, the guilt she from not saving the young girl, and finding the lastest victim. Oh, Rick and Emily do not take any credit for solving any of there cases. They send all information to the local police along with the bad guy. This last case has them second guessing themselves. Can Emily and Rick save this girl? Or will the Tick Tock Killer get them both? I received a copy of this book from Net Galley. All opinions are my own and done so voluntarily.
February 1, 2017
"A Covert Investigative Thriller"
In this high action, powerful novel, Emily Stone is a vigilante detective. She had been a deputy in law enforcement, but was not accepted because she was a woman and had strong desires to also investigate cases. She decides to quit before she is fired. As a covert detective she has quite a past of hunting down killers and many serial killers turning all evidence into local police. In this story she faces her ultimate opponent, the Tick-Tock Killer (a child abductor) with partner Rick Lopez, who is also the love of her life. Her struggles become a psychological battle. This is a very impressive high action story with impeccable writing style. Highly recommend.
In this high action, powerful novel, Emily Stone is a vigilante detective. She had been a deputy in law enforcement, but was not accepted because she was a woman and had strong desires to also investigate cases. She decides to quit before she is fired. As a covert detective she has quite a past of hunting down killers and many serial killers turning all evidence into local police. In this story she faces her ultimate opponent, the Tick-Tock Killer (a child abductor) with partner Rick Lopez, who is also the love of her life. Her struggles become a psychological battle. This is a very impressive high action story with impeccable writing style. Highly recommend.
September 25, 2021
So, guess what? Yep I yet again join a series late in the game. This apparently is number five in an on going series. But, I am pleased to announce that the author's books are all standalone novels. I'm wiping my forehead trust me. I seem to be always late to the party but at least this one I didn't have to hunt down the first five.
Anyway. This is a psychological crime thriller. It also grabs your attention immediately. No need to read the first few pages to know you're going to enjoy the journey. This is action packed and quick paced. The characters are likeable.
This is the first book by this author that I have read. But I will read more in the future.
It's kind of intense. With a strong female lead.
Enjoy!
Anyway. This is a psychological crime thriller. It also grabs your attention immediately. No need to read the first few pages to know you're going to enjoy the journey. This is action packed and quick paced. The characters are likeable.
This is the first book by this author that I have read. But I will read more in the future.
It's kind of intense. With a strong female lead.
Enjoy!
July 15, 2022
Emily Stone plods on
It seems like the writing gets worse instead of better with each book in the series. Either that or the editing does. Disturbing misuse of words, especially the verbs, made me need to re-read sentences to figure out what she was trying to say.
The plotlines remain gripping but if it requires mental translation to read a book it's hardly worth it.
Also, when will poor Emily get wise to being more away and quit getting ambushed several times per book
It seems like the writing gets worse instead of better with each book in the series. Either that or the editing does. Disturbing misuse of words, especially the verbs, made me need to re-read sentences to figure out what she was trying to say.
The plotlines remain gripping but if it requires mental translation to read a book it's hardly worth it.
Also, when will poor Emily get wise to being more away and quit getting ambushed several times per book
January 16, 2023
Emily Stone does not disappoint
A good story. Rick and Emily are up against a psychopath and time as well. Also, we gain some insight on Emily's earlier time when she was a deputy in Indiana. I would have given this book a 5 star rating, but , really how much more can Emily take before she is full of scars and broken bones...but it is still a better world with Emily than without her. I highly recommend this book.
A good story. Rick and Emily are up against a psychopath and time as well. Also, we gain some insight on Emily's earlier time when she was a deputy in Indiana. I would have given this book a 5 star rating, but , really how much more can Emily take before she is full of scars and broken bones...but it is still a better world with Emily than without her. I highly recommend this book.
May 11, 2017
The fifth book in the Emily Stone series but can be read as a stand alone. The opening scene left me confused but it did grab my attention. I loved the characters and the plot and the book is full of tension. The relationship between Emily and Rick is strong as ever and they are an engaging twosome. Well written and plenty of action. Thank you Net Galley for my copy.
January 18, 2018
Excellent!!
I really like these books. They are suspenseful and loaded with action. I love the main character!! I would like to read more but there's only a couple of these books you can get with Kindle unlimited and then you have to purchase the other books??? Not sure why that is???
I really like these books. They are suspenseful and loaded with action. I love the main character!! I would like to read more but there's only a couple of these books you can get with Kindle unlimited and then you have to purchase the other books??? Not sure why that is???
April 21, 2022
OMG!! This terrific and terrifying!!!!
This is a GREAT book!!!!! I could NOT put it down! Read it straight through. Will Em make it through this one? Will Rick be able to save and himself? Who is this madman who is kidnapping and killing little girls? Who is it that he talks to when no one is there? All the answers are in this excellent book! Highly recommended.
This is a GREAT book!!!!! I could NOT put it down! Read it straight through. Will Em make it through this one? Will Rick be able to save and himself? Who is this madman who is kidnapping and killing little girls? Who is it that he talks to when no one is there? All the answers are in this excellent book! Highly recommended.
November 6, 2023
A fantastic series
Each story seems to get more intense and complicated, but this unwavering duo just keeps going, no matter how much it damages them emotionally, physically, or psychologically. It's a fantastic series that you won't want to miss.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
Each story seems to get more intense and complicated, but this unwavering duo just keeps going, no matter how much it damages them emotionally, physically, or psychologically. It's a fantastic series that you won't want to miss.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
July 11, 2020
Review of: "Dark Pursuit" .
Another great read by this author; exciting from beginning to end. Here it is past 3:00 o'clock a.m. and I can sleep now that I've finished this book.
Another great read by this author; exciting from beginning to end. Here it is past 3:00 o'clock a.m. and I can sleep now that I've finished this book.
July 29, 2022
Amazing
What an awesome book this was! It has a great plot and plenty of action to keep you on your toes! Rick and Emily are tracking down a serial killer and are racing against the clock to save a little girl.
What an awesome book this was! It has a great plot and plenty of action to keep you on your toes! Rick and Emily are tracking down a serial killer and are racing against the clock to save a little girl.
January 12, 2023
Great book lots going on. Great insight to this serial killer. Throughly enjoyed this book actually love the whole series They have all bee hard to put down once started and you learn more about the main characters in each book p
September 30, 2024
awesome
Wow! Another fast paced, page turner! Emily and Rick are searching for someone kidnapping and killing little girls. This is one has Emily aggravated and upset that nothing is falling into place!
Wow! Another fast paced, page turner! Emily and Rick are searching for someone kidnapping and killing little girls. This is one has Emily aggravated and upset that nothing is falling into place!
June 16, 2025
The Worst Kind
Rick and Emily are trying to find a serial killer who had killed 16 children that they knew of.
Both Emily and Rick nearly died during this case that made it had to put down.
Rick and Emily are trying to find a serial killer who had killed 16 children that they knew of.
Both Emily and Rick nearly died during this case that made it had to put down.
July 20, 2017
Serial Killer is Pursued
Emily Stone and her partner investigate a serial killer of young females. In some danger themselves, Emily and her friend come to a fruitful conclusion.
Emily Stone and her partner investigate a serial killer of young females. In some danger themselves, Emily and her friend come to a fruitful conclusion.
May 19, 2018
Intense
Was a great read but again with the heroine jumping the gun without help and being all stubborn. Please don't go that route Jennifer.
Was a great read but again with the heroine jumping the gun without help and being all stubborn. Please don't go that route Jennifer.
August 18, 2020
There were passages that kept me involved to the point that I could not stop reading. Late to dinner was one such time.
January 18, 2023
Keeps you on the edge
This book keeps you hanging by the tips of your fingers over the cliff. A hell bent thriller of chaos and rescue. Love, love the Emily Stone series.
This book keeps you hanging by the tips of your fingers over the cliff. A hell bent thriller of chaos and rescue. Love, love the Emily Stone series.
June 26, 2016
This was a very good book, the first of this author's I've read. Although this was #5 in the series I had no trouble following along. At some point I want to go back and read the previous books.
Emily Stone and her soul mate, Rick Lopez, track down killers. Some might call them vigilantes but once they solve a case they turn all the evidence over to the police - anonymously, of course - and let them take it from there. In this case they are after the Tick-Tock killer who has been kidnapping children, killing them, and dumping their bodies four days later. They think they've found him but when they go to capture him and free his latest victim, he manages to knock Emily out. She wakes up surrounded by dead body parts and stumbles into the cabin where the little girl was being held only to find she's too late. Traumatized by the experience, she ends up in a therapist's office. It is here we learn some about Emily's time as a police officer and when she brought down a group of crooked cops. The remainder of the story focuses on Emily and Rick's efforts to track down the serial killer before he claims another life.
I found this book, and its characters, riveting. I didn't want to put it down. Rick made the perfect mate. He was so caring and concerned about Emily. Although he wanted to control her in order to protect her and keep her safe, he was also willing, at times, to let her be herself. Emily was stubborn, diligent, but had her flaws as we see from her experiences, both past and present. She was also very good at profiling and forensics which made her an excellent iinvestigator.
I liked the concept behind the plot. Emily had always wanted to be a cop but her skills are better suited to just herself and Rick working alone. I am also intrigued by the fact her parents were murdered and the case has never been solved, motivation behind Emily enrolling iin the academy. Wondering if the answer will be revealed in a future work. Anyway, this was one I would definitely recommend. It has just the right elements of mystery and suspense with a hint of romance thrown in for good measure.
Emily Stone and her soul mate, Rick Lopez, track down killers. Some might call them vigilantes but once they solve a case they turn all the evidence over to the police - anonymously, of course - and let them take it from there. In this case they are after the Tick-Tock killer who has been kidnapping children, killing them, and dumping their bodies four days later. They think they've found him but when they go to capture him and free his latest victim, he manages to knock Emily out. She wakes up surrounded by dead body parts and stumbles into the cabin where the little girl was being held only to find she's too late. Traumatized by the experience, she ends up in a therapist's office. It is here we learn some about Emily's time as a police officer and when she brought down a group of crooked cops. The remainder of the story focuses on Emily and Rick's efforts to track down the serial killer before he claims another life.
I found this book, and its characters, riveting. I didn't want to put it down. Rick made the perfect mate. He was so caring and concerned about Emily. Although he wanted to control her in order to protect her and keep her safe, he was also willing, at times, to let her be herself. Emily was stubborn, diligent, but had her flaws as we see from her experiences, both past and present. She was also very good at profiling and forensics which made her an excellent iinvestigator.
I liked the concept behind the plot. Emily had always wanted to be a cop but her skills are better suited to just herself and Rick working alone. I am also intrigued by the fact her parents were murdered and the case has never been solved, motivation behind Emily enrolling iin the academy. Wondering if the answer will be revealed in a future work. Anyway, this was one I would definitely recommend. It has just the right elements of mystery and suspense with a hint of romance thrown in for good measure.
June 26, 2015
In fairness to this book, I have not read the previous volumes in the series.
It opens with a chase/conflict that confused me at some points. Why not turn the wheel and zoom to the side instead of letting the bad guy push her car? How did Emily go down that road if there's a tree blocking it when Rick gets there? How do they know that the bodies are dumped "precisely" four days after abduction when it's not scientifically possible to pinpoint time of death and finding bodies rarely happens within five minutes of being dumped, in addition to abduction times likely being estimates? These sorts of details are minor and nitpicky, but add up as the story goes, straining suspension of disbelief.
The plot in itself is generally fine. I'm not fond of flashback stories, so this book didn't do much for me. The middle parts revolve around an event in the past that causes PTSD issues in the present. There are also tiny flashbacks within the major flashback. If that doesn't bother you, though, it seems to generally work.
More troubling, the book really needs some editing. Dialogue is stilted and awkward, sentences frequently have strange construction, word choices can be odd, metaphors are cliched, and it has the usual missing words and other minor errors. There are also POV errors, showing Emily's internal thoughts when another character has the point-of-view, which can be confusing.
The characters are well done and seem fully fleshed with coherent motivations and behaviors. I did like the treatment of the bad guys and the red herrings. It has a lot more telling than showing, which was disappointing, but I still found the story interesting enough to see it through to the end, and that end satisfied me.
Overall, I recommend this book for people who like thrillers and can glaze over grammar and editing problems. Despite being book 5 of a series, it stands on its own. The first book is Compulsion.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It opens with a chase/conflict that confused me at some points. Why not turn the wheel and zoom to the side instead of letting the bad guy push her car? How did Emily go down that road if there's a tree blocking it when Rick gets there? How do they know that the bodies are dumped "precisely" four days after abduction when it's not scientifically possible to pinpoint time of death and finding bodies rarely happens within five minutes of being dumped, in addition to abduction times likely being estimates? These sorts of details are minor and nitpicky, but add up as the story goes, straining suspension of disbelief.
The plot in itself is generally fine. I'm not fond of flashback stories, so this book didn't do much for me. The middle parts revolve around an event in the past that causes PTSD issues in the present. There are also tiny flashbacks within the major flashback. If that doesn't bother you, though, it seems to generally work.
More troubling, the book really needs some editing. Dialogue is stilted and awkward, sentences frequently have strange construction, word choices can be odd, metaphors are cliched, and it has the usual missing words and other minor errors. There are also POV errors, showing Emily's internal thoughts when another character has the point-of-view, which can be confusing.
The characters are well done and seem fully fleshed with coherent motivations and behaviors. I did like the treatment of the bad guys and the red herrings. It has a lot more telling than showing, which was disappointing, but I still found the story interesting enough to see it through to the end, and that end satisfied me.
Overall, I recommend this book for people who like thrillers and can glaze over grammar and editing problems. Despite being book 5 of a series, it stands on its own. The first book is Compulsion.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 19, 2015
Dark Pursuit is the fifth book by Jennifer Chase in the Emily Stone series. Dark Pursuit is an action packed book starting from the very first page. Emily Stone and Rick Lopez are on a race against time to stop a serial killer whose victims are children.
Dark Pursuit is the first book I have read in Chase’s series. If the others books in the series are as good as this one is, then they are all must reads. Dark Pursuit is made up of three parts. The first part starts with a car chase and Emily ends up seeing the results of an unspeakable crime committed by a serial killer. The second part is the tale of Emily’s police career and the events she witnessed to put her on the path of becoming a “phantom detective” who hunts serial killers. The third part of the book is the where Emily tries to find the Tick-Tock Killer and his next victim.
There were so many things that made Dark Pursuit a good book. I liked that while Emily and Rick are both partners and lovers, that their relationship was not the focus of the story. I also think that it is so wonderfully creepy that the Tick-Tock Killer communicates with his dead mother. I love how Chase made Emily Stone a strong female character who can take care of herself. I wish there were more female characters like that in books.
Reading Dark Pursuit is not recommended if you are about to go to bed. This book will give you an adrenaline rush that will keep you awake the whole night just trying to finish the book. I am now definitely a fan of Jennifer Chase and her Emily Stone series. I would like to read her other books in the series, just not before I am going to sleep.
Dark Pursuit is the first book I have read in Chase’s series. If the others books in the series are as good as this one is, then they are all must reads. Dark Pursuit is made up of three parts. The first part starts with a car chase and Emily ends up seeing the results of an unspeakable crime committed by a serial killer. The second part is the tale of Emily’s police career and the events she witnessed to put her on the path of becoming a “phantom detective” who hunts serial killers. The third part of the book is the where Emily tries to find the Tick-Tock Killer and his next victim.
There were so many things that made Dark Pursuit a good book. I liked that while Emily and Rick are both partners and lovers, that their relationship was not the focus of the story. I also think that it is so wonderfully creepy that the Tick-Tock Killer communicates with his dead mother. I love how Chase made Emily Stone a strong female character who can take care of herself. I wish there were more female characters like that in books.
Reading Dark Pursuit is not recommended if you are about to go to bed. This book will give you an adrenaline rush that will keep you awake the whole night just trying to finish the book. I am now definitely a fan of Jennifer Chase and her Emily Stone series. I would like to read her other books in the series, just not before I am going to sleep.
June 2, 2015
This had all the elements for a great crime novel. YOu have the detective with the past who turns into the detective on the sidelines solving crimes and sending the info to the police. You have her strong desire to save others as is the case in this novel in which little girls lives are at stake. We have her partner who loves her dearly and is worried for her after she survives a dangerous moment and comes out fighting more than just the time on the clock to get the killer.
We have the killer who is really nuts. He reminds me of the killers in John Sandford novels and this book at times is written like that where we see through the eyes of the killer. We see his thoughts and partially why he does what he does.
We have the element of danger and intrigue and the detective who is close to solving the case and runs into his vigilante detectives. The crime itself is horrific and just has you wanting Emily and her partner finding the killer and taking him down. The danger element is suspenseful enough to keep you wanting more and the pursuit is intriguing.
This is a nicely written crime thriller that keeps you on the edge while giving you little snippets to help you learn more but also has you wanting more and intriguing you enough to urge you to read on. the characters draw you in and the look into the mind of Emily and the killer is fascinating. it is written in the style of John Sandford meets JD Robb with the killer’s thoughts and the detective thoughts who has the amazing man by her side. A great crime novel that captures you and keeps you intrigued.
We have the killer who is really nuts. He reminds me of the killers in John Sandford novels and this book at times is written like that where we see through the eyes of the killer. We see his thoughts and partially why he does what he does.
We have the element of danger and intrigue and the detective who is close to solving the case and runs into his vigilante detectives. The crime itself is horrific and just has you wanting Emily and her partner finding the killer and taking him down. The danger element is suspenseful enough to keep you wanting more and the pursuit is intriguing.
This is a nicely written crime thriller that keeps you on the edge while giving you little snippets to help you learn more but also has you wanting more and intriguing you enough to urge you to read on. the characters draw you in and the look into the mind of Emily and the killer is fascinating. it is written in the style of John Sandford meets JD Robb with the killer’s thoughts and the detective thoughts who has the amazing man by her side. A great crime novel that captures you and keeps you intrigued.
May 16, 2015
I received a free ebook copy for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
was gripping right from the start and I felt like even with the happening story, I connected with Emily immediately. She was on the hunt for a killer and battling her own internal problems too. Her dedication and drive are astounding and nonetheless, encouraging! She’s not a certified member of law enforcement but proves that her actions can clearly make a difference.
Emily and her lover/job partner are in hot pursuit of a killer, The Tick-Tock Killer to be exact, and they are on a strict timeline to catch him before another young girl is brutally murdered. I was on edge with the turn of each page wondering how much closer each step was going to bring this killer to justice – if at all! You get to feel the story from so many angles that you’ll feel like you’re in a time crunch to finish the book so you can see if Sara is saved and a killer is brought to justice.
I tried to fit in a chapter or two of this book on breaks at work, ball practices, etc.; however, I finally reached a point where I felt my heart pounding so hard that I just couldn’t stop until I finished it! When a book affects me physically and psychologically, I know it’s a keeper! This book is part of a series – The Emily Stone series – but it can be read all on its own. The character and plot development are so deep that you’ll instantly connected.
was gripping right from the start and I felt like even with the happening story, I connected with Emily immediately. She was on the hunt for a killer and battling her own internal problems too. Her dedication and drive are astounding and nonetheless, encouraging! She’s not a certified member of law enforcement but proves that her actions can clearly make a difference.
Emily and her lover/job partner are in hot pursuit of a killer, The Tick-Tock Killer to be exact, and they are on a strict timeline to catch him before another young girl is brutally murdered. I was on edge with the turn of each page wondering how much closer each step was going to bring this killer to justice – if at all! You get to feel the story from so many angles that you’ll feel like you’re in a time crunch to finish the book so you can see if Sara is saved and a killer is brought to justice.
I tried to fit in a chapter or two of this book on breaks at work, ball practices, etc.; however, I finally reached a point where I felt my heart pounding so hard that I just couldn’t stop until I finished it! When a book affects me physically and psychologically, I know it’s a keeper! This book is part of a series – The Emily Stone series – but it can be read all on its own. The character and plot development are so deep that you’ll instantly connected.
May 8, 2015
I was recently asked if I could read this book and write a review. My response was "SURE - love to read new authors" - at least new authors for me. And this is the 1st book that I have read by this author and I can guarantee that I will be reading more!!!
This is a well-written crime thriller that will have you wondering what is going to happen next - all the way from the first page to the last!!!
Emily Stone is a former deputy sheriff. She is no longer in law enforcement but she is dedicated to following leads and anonymously forwarding the information to police in order to catch serial killers. This story is about the Tick-Tock killer. The twist and turns in this story will keep you on the edge of your seat - and a lot of things that happen will catch you totally off guard. I don't write spoilers - so I will say no more.
I will warn you - that if you are a lover of crime/detective type stories - you will find it hard to put this book down!!! Guess that is why I finished reading it in a day!!!
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review!
This is a well-written crime thriller that will have you wondering what is going to happen next - all the way from the first page to the last!!!
Emily Stone is a former deputy sheriff. She is no longer in law enforcement but she is dedicated to following leads and anonymously forwarding the information to police in order to catch serial killers. This story is about the Tick-Tock killer. The twist and turns in this story will keep you on the edge of your seat - and a lot of things that happen will catch you totally off guard. I don't write spoilers - so I will say no more.
I will warn you - that if you are a lover of crime/detective type stories - you will find it hard to put this book down!!! Guess that is why I finished reading it in a day!!!
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review!
July 2, 2015
I discovered this book on Masquerade Crew - Crew Review list and was given a copy in exchange for this honest review.
This a cross between police procedural and a mystery/thriller.
Emily Stone and her partner Rick have faced many serial killers in the past. This time though they've met there match. In the opening, Emily is actively engaged in pursuing a suspect in the dark. What happens during and just after that, sets the stage for the rest of the book.
In some ways this story reminded me of the Lone Ranger and Tonto. They investigate the suspects and leave the arrests to the police. Maybe a little like Batman and Robin where they face the dangers head on and yes sometimes they get captured. I also believe Emily Stone is every bit the Strong Female Lead character. What she goes through would weaken even a tough man. She did what she had to do because that's how she was made and it also because it needed to be done.
Warning: This book is for Mature Audiences due to sex, violence, and adult language.
This a cross between police procedural and a mystery/thriller.
Emily Stone and her partner Rick have faced many serial killers in the past. This time though they've met there match. In the opening, Emily is actively engaged in pursuing a suspect in the dark. What happens during and just after that, sets the stage for the rest of the book.
In some ways this story reminded me of the Lone Ranger and Tonto. They investigate the suspects and leave the arrests to the police. Maybe a little like Batman and Robin where they face the dangers head on and yes sometimes they get captured. I also believe Emily Stone is every bit the Strong Female Lead character. What she goes through would weaken even a tough man. She did what she had to do because that's how she was made and it also because it needed to be done.
Warning: This book is for Mature Audiences due to sex, violence, and adult language.
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